When Annabelle asked them to keep watch over the members of Skulth, they already understood what their Queen's true aim was.
So, when the cult's headquarters was discovered, they did not withdraw completely, even though Annabelle had told them to stay out of it. They refrained from interfering directly, respecting her orders—but they never lost sight of Skulth's movements.
"A few of our people are still trailing them, and one of Umbral's own has infiltrated the sect. We know exactly where they are," Jean reported.
Adrian was stunned. To think they had been working so efficiently, so silently from the shadows—it unsettled him.
Ariana broke the silence. "What was your plan for them?"
Jean exchanged a brief glance with Ember before answering. "The cult has struck a deal with the Towers. Together, they're plotting something to win back the people's trust. Our plan was to exterminate the entire cult during that event."
